Ambient light sensor enables human-eye spectral sensitivity

A new high-accuracy digital ambient light sensor for consumer and industrial applications has been introduced by Vishay. The s VEML6030 combines a highly-sensitive photo-diode, low-noise amplifier, and 16-bit ADC in a miniature, transparent surface-mount package measuring only 2mm x 2mm x 0.85mm. The sensor adopts Filtron technology and features an interrupt function while supporting an I²C bus interface for simple operation. Operating over a temperature range of -25C to +85C, the device released today will provide display and keypad dimming adjustment and optical switching for mobile devices such as smartphones and GPS units; notebooks and PC computers; LCD TVs, digital picture frames and digital cameras; and industrial and medical light sensing. As part of smart home lighting control systems, the VEML6030 provides accurate and current analysis of ambient lighting to give precise control even during unexpected situations, such as fast-moving storms. The device detects fading natural light and can detect the sun rising in the morning to control light levels. Filtron technology enables ambient light spectral sensitivity close to that of the human eye, while the sensor's adoption of O-Trim technology provides output tolerance of =10 %. The device offers detection from 0 lx to 167klx and resolution down to 0.005 lx/ct, allowing for operation in applications with low-transmittance (dark) lens designs. The VEML6030 provides 100Hz and 120Hz flicker noise rejection and excellent temperature compensation stability. The device features low power consumption down to just 2µA in operating mode and 0.5µA in shutdown mode. The VEML6030's supply voltage range is from 2.5V to 3.6V, while its I²C bus voltage range is from 1.7V to 3.6V. Offered in a lead (Pb)-free, 6-pin package, the device is RoHS-compliant and halogen-free, says the company.